If you're an AI engineer, data scientist or developer with a few years under your belt, you’ve probably asked yourself: “Am I ready for a senior role?” Unlike more traditional career paths, progression in AI can feel vague. There’s no universal checklist — and often, the jump from mid-level to senior comes down to more than just your technical skill.
The good news? There are signs that indicate you’re ready to step up. Here are five of the most telling ones — and how to turn each into action.
1. You Mentor Others Without Being Asked
What this looks like: You regularly help junior team members, review their code with care, and explain complex topics in plain language — even when it’s not in your job description.
Why it matters: Senior roles often involve technical leadership, not just solo performance. Employers want people who uplift others, reduce blockers, and contribute to a culture of growth.
Turn it into action: Start keeping a log of your mentoring moments — onboarding new hires, explaining tools, pair programming. These examples are gold in performance reviews and promotion conversations.
2. You Think in Systems, Not Just Solutions
What this looks like: Instead of just solving the ticket in front of you, you step back to ask: Is this the right problem to solve? Is this scalable? How will this impact other systems?
Why it matters: Senior engineers are expected to think beyond immediate fixes. They help shape architecture, avoid tech debt, and spot risks early.
Turn it into action: When discussing your work, highlight how you’ve improved processes or shaped direction. Add comments to pull requests explaining your system-level thinking.
3. You Own Projects — Not Just Tasks
What this looks like: You take initiative on scoping, planning, and delivering projects. You work across teams, manage timelines, and make tough calls when requirements change.
Why it matters: Senior roles require strong project ownership. Managers need someone they can trust to run with a problem and see it through to impact — not just code delivery.
Turn it into action: Use language that reflects ownership in your resume or internal updates. Say things like, “Led development of…” or “Scoped and delivered…”, not just “Worked on…”
4. You Bridge Technical and Business Priorities
What this looks like: You understand the business drivers behind a feature or model — and you help align technical decisions to those goals.
Why it matters: At the senior level, technical impact is measured by business value. It’s no longer just about building models — it’s about building the right models for your company.
Turn it into action: Get curious. Ask product managers or stakeholders why something matters. Then speak that language in meetings and updates to show you’re aligned with strategic goals.
5. You Act Like a Senior — Even Without the Title
What this looks like: You bring calm to chaos, unblock teams, offer direction, and hold high standards — all without waiting for permission.
Why it matters: One of the strongest signals you’re ready for promotion is that others already treat you like a senior. Titles follow trust.
Turn it into action: Reflect on how often people come to you for help or decisions. Ask a trusted peer or manager: “Do I already show up as a senior?” Their answer might surprise you.
Preparing for the Next Step
If you saw yourself in some (or all) of these signs — that’s a strong indicator it’s time to think seriously about a senior role. Whether you’re aiming for an internal promotion or exploring external opportunities, here’s how to start:
- Gather evidence: Document your achievements, projects, mentorship, and impact.
- Talk to your manager: Express interest in levelling up and ask what gaps (if any) they see.
- Tailor your applications: If you’re applying externally, match your resume to senior job descriptions and highlight leadership skills, not just tech stacks.
And remember — many mid-career professionals delay putting their hand up because they think they need to tick every single box. You don’t. If you’ve already started walking the walk, you might be more ready than you realise.